‘On this day, the sky shines clear and the air carries a refreshing breeze, evoking a sense of serenity and ease.’ In just a few words, that serene and carefree feeling comes to life. Ease and tranquility epitomise the pinnacle of Buddhist philosophy; in our humble mortal life, they signify liberation from troubles and unhindered movement. For urban dwellers today, this state of mind is the ultimate pursuit.

The client, immersed in the film and television industry, has chosen to relocate their new office space to Yongjiating, entrusting Slow Studio with the task of crafting a bright and inviting work environment. Drawing inspiration from the surrounding context, we aim to break away from the stern utilitarianism of traditional office settings. Through thoughtfully designed spatial layouts and warm material textures, our goal is to cultivate a harmonious environment where filmmakers can freely explore and ignite their creativity.

The space is bifurcated into two distinct sections: the office area on the left and the CEO’s office on the right, catering to varying levels of privacy. Through a transparent entrance, one can immediately behold the serene ambiance within the office area.

Acknowledging the diverse lighting conditions from the north and south, the design centers around a corridor. The southern exposure welcomes abundant natural light through expansive windows, fostering a luminous and open atmosphere within the public office area. Conversely, the northern aspect features a series of slender floor-to-ceiling windows, creating a tranquil and secluded ambiance for individual offices. The deliberate use of varied window forms orchestrates a rhythmic and uninterrupted spatial journey, harnessing light to instill a serene cadence that influences different work moods.

In material selection, Slow Studio utilizes oak veneer, beige textured paint, and matte PVC carpeting to shape the entirety of the space. This combination creates a warm, textured ambiance, achieving a unified expression of the overall atmosphere. In the open office area, continuous storage spaces are enhanced with black squares, effectively breaking the monotony of repetition and introducing visual focal points. Furthermore, the ceiling is tactfully divided by space, incorporating two textures—brushed and smooth—to add depth and intricacy in subtle yet impactful ways.

The two meeting rooms are separated by folding doors, which can be used independently or combined into one, ensuring flexibility of space. The felt panels on the surface of the folding doors cleverly serve as sound-absorbing materials

At the other end of the space, the CEO’s office occupies a quiet and comfortable corner. Upon entering the foyer, one is greeted by exercise equipment and a seven-tone handpan, set against a backdrop of books and art pieces from the owner’s collection. This juxtaposition blurs the lines between work and leisure, encapsulating the precise essence of the design concept.

Within this compact area, three zones—office, meeting, and leisure—are meticulously arranged to meet the owner’s needs. A 10-meter-long storage cabinet along the back wall establishes distinct rhythmic relationships with each respective area. Together, these elements coexist in harmony, reflecting the owner’s integrated approach to work and life, imbued with courage and wisdom. Sitting at the desk, one can observe the changing light conditions through the window, seamlessly blending current life into the vast expanse beyond.

Whether at work or in life, the essence lies in living authentically. Amidst the hustle and bustle of urban life, finding freedom of mind and body embodies the potential created by this office space.